Aviation and Airlines (Commonwealth Union) _ Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has taken a significant step forward in rebuilding its long-haul route network by successfully passing an initial audit conducted by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This development brings the airline closer to resuming flights to the United Kingdom after its international route network was suspended in June 2020 due to the fake pilot license scandal in Pakistan, which affected 262 pilots, including 141 from PIA.
The next crucial phase in PIA’s journey to resume UK flights involves a physical audit by the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), scheduled for September. If the airline clears this audit, the final hurdle preventing PIA from operating flights to the UK will be overcome, potentially opening the doors for future flights to the US and Canada as well.
With a substantial Pakistani diaspora in Europe, especially the UK, the region represents a significant revenue source for PIA, accounting for 37% of the airline’s income. The prospect of tapping back into this lucrative market is undoubtedly a welcome relief for the financially challenged carrier.
In the past, PIA operated flights to various UK airports, including London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds Bradford, from its hubs in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. However, after the suspension, the gap was filled by carriers like British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. Unfortunately, both airlines have recently scaled back their services, leaving only one direct flight between the UK and Pakistan – British Airways’ three-weekly flight from London Heathrow to Islamabad.
PIA operates a considerable fleet of widebody aircraft, mainly comprising Boeing 777s, consisting of six 777-200ERs, two 777-200LRs, and four 777-300ERs. These versatile aircraft can carry between 310 and 393 passengers, depending on the configuration, offering ample capacity for long-haul routes.
As the airline works towards resuming its operations to the UK, passengers and the industry eagerly await its return. While other carriers continue to offer one-stop options for travelers between the UK and Pakistan, PIA’s potential reinstatement could provide a more direct and convenient choice for passengers and further contribute to the airline’s journey towards financial stability and global connectivity.
